The children of the late Dr Chike Akunyili have revealed in a joint tribute that their father became a doctor due to his experience in the Nigeria/Biafra civil war of 1967-1970.
Akunyili, widower of the former NAFDAC chief Prof Dora Akunyili, was killed on Tuesday in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The tribute signed by the children — Dr Ijeoma Akunyili, Dr Edozie Akunyili, Dr Somto Akunyili Asuzu, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Chidiogo Akunyili-Parr, and Obumneme Akunyili — revealed that Akunyili had a bullet in his skull sustained from the war.
Part of the tribute read, “As a young man, he fought as a soldier in the Biafra war. A war that earned him a bullet that stayed lodged in his skull ever since. From this experience of violence and death, he went on to become a doctor saving thousands of lives — a powerful testament to his journey through life.
“He was a loving husband. It is no surprise that, on the day of his untimely death, he was on his way from a memorial lecture in honor of his late wife, who he cherished and honored even in death. At this event and always, he invited everyone to be like his wife Dora.
“He was a man of the people, loved by many for his wisdom and for his courage to always speak the truth. His counsel was sought far and wide.
“He is remembered for his ability to hold an audience captive with his words and stories. To hear him speak in Igbo was to be blessed by the wisdom of endless proverbs.”
The children further said that in Akunyili’s final days, his heart was heavy about the state of things in Nigeria. According to them, he lamented the struggles of people unable to pay for health care.
Many, including President Muhammadu Buhari, have condemned the murder of Akunyili, calling for action from the police.
